Best value car hire from top brands
Thailand car hire tips
Where to pick up your car
There are over 35 car hire locations in Thailand, and the most popular city is Bangkok.
Top car rental brands
The most popular car rental brands in Thailand are Avis, Hertz, Thai Rent A Car, National and Budget.
Best time to hire a car
The cheapest months to pick up your car hire in Thailand are October and August.
Local currency
Baht (THB)
Side of road
Left
Hire a car in Thailand
A favourite Southeast Asian destination, Thailand is a wellspring of diversity that rewards every type of traveller.
Difficult to capture on a single postcard, the country is a fusion of palm-lined beaches, charismatic islands, energetic cities and majestic ancient temples. From the limestone karsts of Krabi to the jungle-clad mountains of Chiang Mai, and from the buzzing streets of Bangkok to the laid-back shores of Koh Samui, Thailand’s landscapes are as varied as they are breathtaking. A hub for backpackers but loved by all who venture through, the country’s exquisite street food, world-renowned hospitality and one-of-a-kind festivals — from the lantern-lit skies of Yi Peng to the joyful chaos of Songkran — are all part of its cultural charm.
Renting a car in Thailand opens up a world of possibilities beyond the usual tourist hotspots. With your own wheels, you can explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya at your own pace, chase waterfalls in Erawan National Park, or wind along scenic coastal roads to hidden beaches that tour buses simply can’t reach. Driving in Thailand also makes it easy to hop between regions — head north to the misty hills of Pai, south to the pristine islands of the Andaman Sea, or east to the quieter shores of Koh Chang.
Whether you’re planning a week-long road trip or simply need a convenient way to get around, easyCar compares top rental brands to make sure you get the best price on car hire in Thailand. Compare, book and start exploring.
Car hire knowledge
Thailand driving tips
| Frequently asked question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Most popular place to hire a car in Thailand | Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Phuket Airport |
| Most popular rental length | Three to five days |
| Most popular month to rent a car | December |
Motorbikes
There are thousands of these two wheelers buzzing around Thailand, and it’s common for them to be overloaded with goods, going the wrong direction or pulling risky moves. Keep a lookout!
Driving etiquette
Close tailgating and sudden lane changes are part of everyday driving here, and indicators are rarely used. Drivers will also inch into gaps in heavy traffic, so a defensive approach behind the wheel is wise.
Pedestrian crossings
Don’t assume cars will stop at marked crossings — in Thailand, the convention is reversed. Stopping for pedestrians disrupts traffic flow, so walkers are expected to wait for a clear gap instead.
Thailand travel tips
Temples
Thailand has thousands — trying to tick them all off is a fast track to exhaustion! Entry is usually free. Leave your shoes and hats at the door, dress conservatively, and be mindful of worshippers during your visit.
Rainy season
From June to October, expect daily downpours across most of the country. Storms can arrive suddenly and hit hard, and flooding sometimes affects road conditions — worth factoring into your driving plans.
Markets
Whether it’s a buzzing night bazaar or a photogenic floating market, Thailand’s shopping scene is unmissable. Don’t pay the first price you’re quoted — haggling is expected, and you can often secure a third off.
Return a ‘wai’
The wai — a gentle bow with palms pressed together — is Thailand’s traditional greeting. When someone welcomes you this way, the polite response is to smile and mirror the gesture back.
Places to go in Thailand
Bangkok
Thailand’s capital and travel hub, the city is bursting with opulent temples, 24-hour street food and chaotic markets.
Erawan National Park
Known for its glorious seven-tiered waterfall and stalagmite riddled caves.
Ayutthaya
Ruins of buddhist temples, monasteries and statues are scattered across this former ancient capital.
Sukhothai
A complex of partially rebuilt temple ruins from the Siamese empire, dating back to Thailand’s golden age.
Chiang Mai
The largest city in northern Thailand, the metropolis has a vibrant nightlife, making it a traveller’s playground.
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The Thailand experience
Nature escapes
Khao Sok – One of the world’s oldest rainforests, this park is home to bears, gibbons and marbled cats, as well as the beautiful Cheow Larn Lake. The best time to visit is during dry season, between December and April.
Khao Yai National Park – Thailand’s oldest national park, its lush landscape is packed with wildlife. While you cannot feed or wash elephants here, you can observe them in their natural environment. You also have the chance to spot exotic birds and monkeys.
Best beaches
Koh Tao – This island is one big amazing beach. It’s one of the top places to cast off from for a diving or snorkeling adventure and a superb hangout for catching some rays.
Ko Samet – Tour groups, solo backpackers and local Bangkokians all flock to the aquamarine waters here. If you’re looking for a party, head to the northern beaches, if you prefer something more secluded the southern beaches will be sure to please. Hat Sai Kaew – Diamond Beach – is a popular stretch of luxury sand.
Sacred places
Wiang Kum Kam – The former capital of Lanna kingdom, this archaeological site dates back to the 13th century. Its landmark monuments include a powerful Buddhist chedi and historic inscribed stone slabs.
Wat Rong Khun – Also known as the White Temple, this Buddhist temple is an intricate piece of architecture. The famous structure is an unconventional yet eye-catching design that will inspire awe, even for those who are ‘templed out’.